Why We Love Wall Sconces
Wall sconces serve two main purposes: to illuminate and to save space. These adaptable light fixtures allow you to control lighting in small areas like corridors or foyers while keeping the area clear of portable fixtures. Wall sconces are popular among decorators, homeowners, and contractors because they are suitable for interior and exterior spaces and look wonderful in both residential and commercial settings.
What Is A Sconce?
A sconce is most traditionally thought of as a bracket mounted on the wall that is used to hold a candle or source of light. Its precise definition has changed over the years into the fixtures we know and love today: modern works of art that decorate bare walls while projecting upward or downward light. Applications of today's sconces are endless and these versatile wall lights work equally well indoors or out. So, where can you use wall sconces in your home?
Where Wall Sconces Work Best in the Home
At home, wall sconces can be strategically placed to light up dark areas, giving the illusion of a bigger space. Entryways are a good place to install contemporary wall sconces that make a bold style statement since this will likely be the first part of your home seen by guests. Wall sconces are also suitable for narrow hallways that are far removed from natural lighting and may not have overhead ceiling lighting. In living rooms, find sconces mounted next to the fireplace where they can complement existing light from a pendant or chandelier. And looking the selection of reading sconces positioned on either side of the bed in the bedroom. There’s no need to confine wall sconce lighting to indoor use only though. LED wall sconces rated for outdoor use are a great way to bring a refined yet modern look to your garden, walkway, or deck. Finally, you may want a couple of outdoor sconces flanking both sides of the garage. Wherever you may need wall lighting, look to a sconce in this assortment as your solution.
Wall Sconce Ideas for Every Style
Top lighting designers have an assortment of outdoor and indoor wall sconces that match almost any decorative style including modern, contemporary, mid-century, rustic, farmhouse and transitional styles. Popular sconce styles embody a modern look with functional elements like dimmers and integrated LEDs to deliver a fixture that is at once easy to use and versatile. From ultramodern wall sconce lights to utilitarian yet modern wall sconces here you’ll find the best lighting option to match your unique style.
How to Choose the Best Wall Sconces
With so many wall sconce options available, you have a handful of choices to make regarding the fixtures size, shape, material, light output and more. Use the following steps to help you pick out the perfect wall lamp for your application.
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Wall Sconce Placement
The first step in choosing the right wall sconce is to consider where it will be placed. If you intend to use a sconce to brighten a foyer or hallway, you may want to choose a simple model that provides adequate ambient lighting. If you're simply replacing an existing wall sconce light, this is an easy step. As part of the fixture's placement, consider how you want it to project light output - up, down or outward.
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Wall Sconce Sizes
Common dimensions of sconces include height, width and depth (from the wall). You will need to properly measure the space on the wall where you plan to install a new wall light fixture to choose the most appropriate size. Consider other decorative implements in the room to make sure the size of sconce isn't too small or overbearing.
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Sconce Shapes, Colors & Finishes
Identify the color palette of the room where you will be installing new wall sconces and look for finishes that accommodate other fixtures in the space. Also be mindful of materials and shapes to find congruence for your home decor.
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Using Wall Sconces Outdoors
If you're looking to use sconces for the exterior of your home, you'll just need to make sure they are appropriately rated for outdoor use.
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How to Install Wall Sconces
If you like the clean look of a cordless wall sconce, you'll have to opt for hardwiring it. If you have questions about how to install a wall sconce, be sure to consult with your electrician.
As far as style, you can get inspiration from your existing décor. If you have a minimalist style, choose sconces that incorporate clean, simple elements combined with brighter LEDs. If your style is a hybrid of modern and traditional, pick sconces that have slightly more ornate shades. For contemporary looks, opt for metal finishes combined with patterned glass shades.
Other Considerations
Choosing the perfect wall light for your home doesn’t have to be challenging but you should be mindful of the available options and how they will function in your interior and exterior spaces. Choose from a varied selection of the top lighting brands and get ideas, advice, and detailed specs on all indoor wall lights so you know you’re making the right choice.
